Inaba: Murray embodies 'Dancing' spirit

Dancing With The Stars judge Carrie Ann Inaba has claimed that contestant Ty Murray "embodies what the show is all about".

The rodeo champion shocked viewers by making it to the semi finals during last week's live show, despite scoring a significantly lower mark than Lil' Kim, who became the ninth star to be sent home.

Speaking to People, Inaba said: "In the past 24 hours I’ve literally been attacked by people asking me, 'What happened with Lil’ Kim? Why is Ty Murray still in the competition?

"It’s simple. Ty Murray embodies what the show is all about. He is the most improved dancer this season. Is he the best dancer? No. But he stepped so far out of his element to do this and that’s why he’s still on the show."

Murray recently claimed that he was "not worried" by criticism of his dancing abilities, saying that he would continue to "keep doing the best" he could.